GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Members of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network, a coalition of community members impacted by toxic PFAS contamination in Michigan, are working with Lansing lawmakers regarding the widespread health impact of PFAS. In addition, the group is calling for legislative action to address the crisis.

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“Toxic PFAS chemicals are seriously impacting the health and well-being of people all across Michigan,” said Tony Spaniola, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. “We…stress the need for urgent action to protect our families, our water and our wildlife.”

According to the Action Network, PFAS chemicals have been detected in the drinking water of nearly 2 million Michiganders. In addition, PFAS have been found in each of the Great Lakes.

PFAS are referred to as “forever chemicals” since they are not biodegradable. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to cancer, thyroid problems, autoimmune disorders, and reproductive problems.

“In Michigan, our water is part of who we are,” said state Rep. Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia). “[That] is why we must ensure all Michiganders have drinking water that is safe and our rivers, streams and lakes are free from toxic chemicals.”

Michigan’s PFAS Action Response Team, has conducted testing for PFAS, leading to more than 11,000 potential PFAS sites identified across the state. The Action Network said another important solution is stopping PFAS-containing products from being used when there are safer alternatives available.

“We are calling for policy solutions to prevent future PFAS contamination, and that starts with stopping PFAS at the source,” said Sandy Wynn-Stelt, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network from Belmont, Michigan. “Legislatures in states across the country and Midwest have already passed laws to protect their residents’ health and address this issue.”

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The state legislature is currently working on the state’s budget for fiscal year 2024. A number of funding priorities for the budget could go toward addressing PFAS contamination, including funding for water infrastructure projects to upgrade water treatment plants, stormwater systems and drinking water systems.

In addition, community members said a lack of accountability for polluters is needed. They say when a polluters cause contamination, stronger enforcement mechanisms are needed to ensure they pay for cleanup.